Mia and Lilly

Mia and Lilly had always done everything together—roommates, best friends, and study partners. They had met in their first year of university and instantly clicked, bonding over late-night cramming sessions, shared meals, and long conversations about their futures. But when the BAM test results arrived, their world was split apart in a way neither of them had anticipated.

Mia sat on her bed, hands shaking slightly as she unfolded the letter. Her heart pounded as she scanned the official-looking document, taking in the results that would determine the rest of her life. Primary School Level. Relief washed over her. It wasn’t adulthood, but at least it meant she could still wear proper clothes, attend structured classes, and maintain some level of independence.

A sharp intake of breath from the other side of the room made Mia look up. Lilly was staring at her own letter, her face pale. “What does it say?” Mia asked hesitantly, already feeling a pit form in her stomach.

Lilly swallowed hard, her hands trembling as she turned the paper around so Mia could see. Toddler Level.

Mia’s mouth went dry. Toddler Level meant nursery care, fully dependent treatment, no more responsibilities—and nappies.

“No,” Lilly whispered, as if saying it out loud would change reality. She looked up at Mia, eyes wide with desperation. “This has to be a mistake, right?”

Mia wanted to say yes. Wanted to comfort her best friend and tell her they could appeal the decision. But the BAM test was final. Everyone knew that.

“I… I don’t know, Lilly.” Mia reached out, gripping her friend’s hand. “Maybe… maybe we can talk to someone?”

Lilly let out a nervous laugh, but it cracked at the edges. “Yeah, right. Like they’ll listen.” She crumpled the paper in her fist, blinking rapidly. “I—I can’t be a toddler, Mia. That’s ridiculous.”

But they both knew that once the results were in, there was no arguing with them.